InfoSearched
Published -
- July 6, 2019
- 1:38 am
So we traveled to East Asia to film a six-part series about beauty, style, and shopping and we’re kicking it off with a tour of some of Tokyo’s most interesting vending machines!
Japan has a TON of vending machines that you can purchase a variety of goods from, and we visited 4 different machines all over the city to investigate some of the strange ones we had heard about. We got some canned bread, hornet larva, spicy snacks, hot soup in a can, and mystery box items from a ~creepy~ vending machine corner!
How are the meals prepared in the “fresh bento” vending machine?
In the bustling streets of Tokyo, one cannot help but notice the ubiquitous presence of vending machines. These machines are a cultural phenomenon in Japan, selling everything from beverages and snacks to souvenirs and personal hygiene products. During my recent trip to Tokyo, I made it a point to try out some of the unique Japanese vending machines that I had read and heard so much about.
The first vending machine that caught my attention was the “hot canned coffee” machine. Japan is known for its obsession with coffee, and this vending machine makes sure that coffee lovers are never too far from their fix. Unlike regular vending machines which dispense cold beverages, this one heats up the coffee cans to a perfect temperature of 50 to 60 degrees Celsius, making it the perfect companion on a chilly Tokyo morning. The coffee tasted fresh and the convenience of having a hot cup ready in seconds was unmatched.
Next up was the “fresh bento” vending machine, which dispenses piping hot, freshly prepared meals. The machine has a small kitchen attached to it, where the meals are prepared and sealed into containers. Customers can choose from a variety of Japanese specialties like katsu curry, teriyaki chicken, and tonkatsu. The meals were surprisingly tasty and tasted like they were made in a restaurant. This vending machine is perfect for busy office workers who don’t have time to eat out or pack their lunch.
One of the most interesting vending machines I tried was the “life advice” machine. It looks like a typical vending machine from the outside, but instead of drinks or snacks, it dispenses philosophical and motivational advice in the form of cards. Users can pick a card randomly or choose from various themes such as love, success, or friendship. The cards had wise messages and insightful quotes, making it a fun and thought-provoking experience.
Lastly, I tried the “ramen vending machine.” Ramen is an iconic dish in Japan and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. This vending machine dispenses a bowl of hot and hearty ramen in just three minutes. The bowl comes with all the toppings pre-packaged, including the broth, noodles, meat, and vegetables. Although the idea of getting a bowl of ramen from a vending machine may sound skeptical, the final product was surprisingly delicious.
In conclusion, Japan’s vending machines offer a glimpse into the country’s unique culture and innovation. From fresh meals to philosophical advice, these machines cater to customers’ every need. Trying out different vending machines is a must-do when visiting Tokyo, and I highly recommend giving it a go. Who knows, you might find something you never knew you needed!
